Cheese Strudel Recipe: A Classic, Flaky, and Delicious Pastry

Introduction

Few pastimes are as indulgent and satisfying as a Cheese Strudel Recipe—a delicate, flaky, and buttery pastry filled with a rich, creamy cheese mixture. This European classic has been enjoyed for centuries, and it remains a beloved treat in many households. Whether you enjoy it as a dessert, a breakfast pastry, or a teatime snack, cheese strudel is a versatile delight that never fails to impress.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making the perfect cheese strudel, including its history, ingredients, equipment, step-by-step preparation, health benefits, serving suggestions, and expert tips. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to bake this delicious pastry from scratch!

What is Cheese Strudel Recipe?

A Cheese Strudel Recipe is a layered pastry filled with a sweet or slightly tangy cheese mixture, usually made with cream cheese, ricotta, or quark cheese. The pastry is typically made using phyllo dough or a homemade strudel dough, which is stretched thin to create an incredibly light and crispy texture.

This dessert is known for its buttery layers, rich filling, and slightly tangy sweetness, making it a favorite treat across Europe, particularly in Austria, Germany, and Hungary. Some variations also include raisins, vanilla, or citrus zest for an extra burst of flavor.

The Origin of Cheese Strudel Recipe

Cheese strudel is part of the rich Austro-Hungarian pastry tradition, which dates back to the 17th century. The word “strudel” comes from the German term meaning “whirlpool”, referring to the characteristic swirling layers of pastry.

The concept of strudel was heavily influenced by Turkish and Middle Eastern pastries, such as baklava, which also use thin layers of dough and rich fillings. Over time, Austrian and Hungarian bakers perfected the technique, creating a variety of strudels, including the famous Apfelstrudel (apple strudel) and Topfenstrudel (cheese strudel).

Fun Fact:

The oldest known strudel recipe dates back to 1696 and is preserved in the Vienna City Library!

Ingredients for a Classic Cheese Strudel Recipe

To make an authentic cheese strudel, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Dough (if making from scratch):

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  
• ½ teaspoon salt
  
• 1 egg
  
• ½ cup (120ml) lukewarm water
  
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
  
• 1 teaspoon vinegar (for elasticity)
  

For the Cheese Filling:

• 1 ½ cups (350g) ricotta cheese or quark cheese
  
• ½ cup (100g) cream cheese
  
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  
• 1 egg yolk
  
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  
• ¼ cup (40g) raisins (optional)
  

For Assembling and Baking:

• 6-8 sheets of phyllo dough (if not making from scratch)
  
• ¼ cup (60g) melted butter (for brushing)
  
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  

Essential Equipment for Making Cheese Strudel Recipe

To achieve the perfect strudel, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools:

• Mixing Bowls – For preparing the dough and filling.
  
• Rolling Pin – To roll out the dough if making from scratch.
  
• Pastry Brush – For brushing butter onto the dough.
  
• Baking Sheet – To bake the strudel evenly.
  
• Clean Kitchen Towel – To help roll the strudel.
  
• Sharp Knife – For slicing the strudel after baking.
  

Step-by-Step Preparation of Cheese Strudel Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough (If Not Using Phyllo Dough)

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
   
2. Add egg, water, oil, and vinegar, then knead until smooth.
   
3. Cover with a damp towel and let rest for 30 minutes.
   

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling

1. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, egg yolk, and lemon zest.
   
2. Stir until smooth and creamy.
   
3. If using raisins, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then fold them into the filling.
   

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough (If Making from Scratch)

1. Lightly flour a clean surface.
   
2. Roll out the dough into a thin rectangle.
   
3. Carefully stretch it using your hands until nearly transparent.
   

Step 4: Assemble the Strudel

1. If using phyllo dough, place one sheet on a clean kitchen towel and brush lightly with melted butter.
   
2. Add more layers (6-8 total), brushing each one with butter.
   
3. Spread the cheese filling evenly, leaving 1 inch from the edges.
   

Step 5: Roll the Strudel

1. Using the towel, gently roll the strudel like a jelly roll.
   
2. Tuck in the ends and place seam-side down on a baking sheet.
   

Step 6: Bake the Strudel

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   
2. Brush the top with more melted butter.
   
3. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
   

Step 7: Cool and Serve

1. Let the strudel cool for 10-15 minutes.
   
2. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
   

Health Benefits of Cheese Strudel Recipe

While cheese strudel is an indulgent treat, it does offer some nutritional benefits:

• Good Source of Protein – Ricotta and cream cheese provide essential proteins.
  
• Rich in Calcium – Dairy-based filling supports bone health.
  
• Lower Sugar Option – Compared to some pastries, strudel has less sugar when made at home.
  

Healthier Modifications:

• Use low-fat ricotta for a lighter version.
  
• Reduce sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey.
  
• Add nuts or seeds for extra fiber.
  

Best Way to Serve Cheese Strudel Recipe

Cheese strudel is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Here are some serving suggestions:

• With Coffee or Tea – A classic pairing!
  
• With Fresh Berries – Adds a refreshing contrast.
  
• With Whipped Cream or Ice Cream – For an extra indulgent treat.
  

Storage Tips:

• Room Temperature: Up to 2 days.
  
• Refrigerated: Up to 5 days, covered.
  
• Frozen: Can be frozen before or after baking for up to 3 months.
  

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	280 kcal
Carbohydrates	32g
Protein	6g
Fat	14g
Sugar	10g

Preparation & Baking Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
  
• Resting Time: 30 minutes
  
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
  
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  

Conclusion

Cheese Strudel Recipe is a timeless, flaky, and delicious pastry that brings a taste of European tradition to your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast treat or a dessert, its rich, creamy filling and crisp layers make it a standout dish.

Try making it at home and impress your family with this classic, bakery-style pastry!

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought phyllo dough?

Yes! It saves time and still delivers a crispy, delicious result.

2. What cheese works best?

Ricotta, quark, or cream cheese are ideal choices.

3. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, by using gluten-free pastry sheets.

4. How do I prevent the strudel from getting soggy?

Make sure the filling isn’t too wet and avoid overfilling.

5. Can I add fruit to the filling?

Absolutely! Chopped apples or apricots work wonderfully.